Wetsuits & Thermal

Extra Protection from Wetsuits

Wetsuits help you to keep nice and warm in the water and protect your skin from bumps and scrapes. The Swimwear Shack has a great range of wetsuits on offer. You can buy quickly and easily online and ensure you have the right wetsuit whether you are surfing, swimming or diving.

Wetsuits provide excellent protection when you are in the water. They can keep you warm in all kinds of conditions and help to shield your skin from any sharp or abrasive debris in the water. You can buy wetsuits in different thicknesses and this means you will be able to go in the water all year round.

Here is a quick guide to men’s wetsuits to help you find the best options.

Wetsuit Thickness

The thickness of the wetsuit will determine how warm it is. Basically the thicker the neoprene the more thermal protection it can provide. It is also important to remember that thicker materials are generally less flexible. This means if you do need a warm wetsuit then you should try and opt for a high grade super-stretch material that can offer the maximum flexibility.

-If you are surfing, body boarding or wind surfing then you will need plenty of freedom of movement from your wetsuit. Many surfers and water sports enthusiasts choose the thinnest, lightest weight wetsuits on the market such as 2mm shorties. These provide optimum manoeuvrability when taking part in energetic sports. You can then make these wetsuits warmer by adding a lightweight rashie.

-If you are swimming or diving in conditions under 20 degrees centigrade then you will need to opt for at least a 3mm suit. For conditions under 15 degrees centigrade then a 5mm+ suit will be necessary combined with wetsuit boots, gloves and hoods for additional thermal insulation.

Wetsuit Fit

Wetsuits are designed to be figure hugging. This enables the suit to trap a thin layer of water against your skin which adds to the thermal insulation. If the suit is too tight however the following problems can occur:

-Discomfort – wetsuits that are too tight will rub and dig into your skin. This can cause rashes and irritation around the neck, wrist and ankle seals. They can also cause painful chaffing in the armpit, groin and shoulder areas.

-Restricted Movement – tight wetsuits can pull across the shoulders, arms, groin and torso. This restricts movements and can cause difficulties if you are taking part in water sports. Wetsuits that are too loose are also no good. They will let too much water flush into the suit which will prevent it from keeping you warm. This will also add to your weight in the water and increase drag which can make you tire more quickly.